Degenerative Joint Disease (Arthritis)

Degenerative Joint Disease (also known as arthritis) is a common cause of pain in our pets. Arthritis is a degenerative, progressive and irreversible condition affecting joints. It involves the gradual and continues loss of joint cartilage, formation of bony spurs/growths, and the thickening of connective tissue around the joint. Arthritis is likely as common in cats that it is dogs, but not as easy to spot. Fortunately, there are many things that you as a pet owner can do to reduce your pet’s discomfort.

Signs of arthritis in dogs

• Lameness either once in a while but increasing in frequency or persistent

• Stiffness

• Pain

• Joint swelling / thickening

• Decreased range of motion

• Muscle weakneing or loss

Signs of arthritis in cats

• Reduced activity

• Increased hiding

• Increased irritability

• Decreased grooming

• Inability to jump on objects they used to

• ‘Misjudging’ jumping onto things

What can you do at home?

Weight management in older arthritic animals is essential. Joints that are sore & stressed are made worse when carrying excessive weight. Much like the human population, our pet population is also battling obesity. Fortunately, owners are in control of their pet’s diet and thus are in control of their pet’s weight.

With a healthy weight, pets live longer more comfortably. Making climbing stairs, jumping into the car and even getting up off their beds easier.

Specialised joint health diets have been formulated to reduce inflammation in the joints. These diets contain omega fats (EPA and/or DHA), glucosamine and chondroitin. Anecdotally, benefits can be seen within a month.

Neutraceuticals are nutritional supplements that are believed to posivitley affect cartilage health. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are commonly used and may be helpful in some cases of osteoarthritis. Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids have been shown to have marked anti-inflammatory effect when provided at adequate levels.

Controlled low impact exercise helps improve function and reduce pain. Low impact exercise can include controlled leash walking, swimming, walking in water, walking up and down ramps. Short regular walks (eg 2 x 10min sessions) are most beneficial.

There are many changes you can implement at home to make your arthritic pet more comfortable.  

-        Provide a warm dry environment away from cold and dampness

-        Use a soft well padded bed or orthopaedic bed

-        Provide secure footing to avoid slips and falls, for eg carpet runners on slippery floors or specialised dog shoes

-        Minimise stair climbing by offering ramps

-        Portable ramps for the car

-        Reduce high strain activities like fetch (twisting motions) or excessive play with other dogs  

-        Elevate food and water bowls for pets that struggle to lean down

What can your vet help with?

There are multiple osteoarthritis medications agents available through your local veterinarian such as injectable polysulfated glycosaminoglycans which provide faster and longer lasted improvement than oral forms.

There are also injectable medications available that target a protein involved in the stimulation of pain in arthritic dogs and cats.

Non-steroidal anti inflammatories can also assist in reducing the pain associated with arthritis.

Your vet can also create a weightloss plan for your pet.

Your vet is there to create a personalized arthritic pain plan for your pet that is achievable for your specific circumstance.